Samsung Galaxy S III Mini launching in Europe, prices start at 345 euros

The Samsung Galaxy SIII mini, which went on sale in the UK on Thursday, includes a 1GHz dual-core processor, a 5-megapixel camera and also the Jelly Bean 4.1 Android operating-system.

Despite being called 'mini', the handset includes a 4-inch WVGA Super AMOLED display. Additionally, it has all of the staple smartphone features, including Bluetooth (4.0), Wi-Fi, GPS and HSPA connectivity, as well as access to the Android app store. In addition to these essential elements, the S3 mini carries a number of the Samsung-specific features available on its larger sibling.

"This compact version features the ability to understand human gestures, S Voice, which supplies customised commands, along with Direct Call, which allows customers to automatically call that person simply in the motion of lifting the phone with their ear... to create a competent and natural consumer experience," Samsung said in the statement.

Carphone Warehouse offers the unit for free on the Orange network on deals of £20.50 each month, using a two-year commitment. Amazon UK is selling the handset SIM-free for just under £300, nevertheless the online retailer is still listing the device as on pre-order, with an earliest ship date of 17 November.

Network operator Three said the Galaxy S3 mini come in its stores from Friday, and will be entirely on its website from 16 November. 

See links below to purchase

Expansys and Carphone Warehouse and Amazon